Microsoft has finally hopped on the VR bandwagon and with this, the company has announced its VR headset that offers full-fledged virtual reality, unlike the HoloLens. Microsoft has partnered with Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus and Acer to release an entire line-up of standalone VR headsets. Additionally, Microsoft also showcased the HoloTour app which was meant for the HoloLens which is more of a mixed reality headset. The app will let users take a trip around the world in the comfort of their homes.

The thing is that Microsoft has not yet announced the complete details about the VR headsets and has just announced their foray into the segment. However, they did reveal some details including the inside-out tracking sensors which removes the need for external cameras or laser systems usually found on VR’s including Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

Standalone VR’s have carved a niche for themselves since the usual VR headset requires users to strap on the phone to the headset. Also, since the manufacturer has a greater control over the hardware in the standalone VR it is much easier to achieve the required results. That said the headset showcased was still a wired one despite not needing external trackers.

At this juncture, it is predominantly HTC, Sony, Samsung and the Oculus that have been ruling the roost when it comes to VR and players like LeEco and Lenovo are pulling up the sock and are playing catch up. It would be interesting to see how Microsoft will position itself when it comes to the VR content. The headsets are expected to hit the market by 2017

Mahit Huilgol Senior Author Mahit Huilgol is a Mechanical Engineering graduate and is a Technology and Automobile aficionado. He ditched the Corporate boardroom wars in favor of technology battleground. Also, a foodie by heart and loves both the edible chips and the non-edible silicon chips.